Jasmonates (JAs) are lipid-derived compounds acting as key signaling
compounds in plant stress responses and development. The JA co-receptor
complex and several enzymes of JA biosynthesis have been crystallized,
and various JA signal transduction pathways including cross-talk to most
of the plant hormones have been intensively studied. Defense to
herbivores and necrotrophic pathogens are mediated by JA. Other
environmental cues mediated by JA are light, seasonal and circadian
rhythms, cold stress, desiccation stress, salt stress and UV stress.
During development growth inhibition of roots, shoots and leaves occur
by JA, whereas seed germination and flower development are partially
affected by its precursor 12-oxo-phytodienoic acid (OPDA). Based on
these numerous JA mediated signal transduction pathways active in plant
stress responses and development, there is an increasing interest in
horticultural and biotechnological applications. Intercropping, the
mixed growth of two or more crops, mycorrhization of plants,
establishment of induced resistance, priming of plants for enhanced
insect resistance as well as pre- and post-harvest application of JA are
few examples. Additional sources for horticultural improvement, where
JAs might be involved, are defense against nematodes, biocontrol by
plant growth promoting rhizobacteria, altered composition of rhizosphere
bacterial community, sustained balance between growth and defense, and
improved plant immunity in intercropping systems. Finally,
biotechnological application for JA-induced production of
pharmaceuticals and application of JAs as anti-cancer agents were
intensively studied.